After being on and off again for nearly a decade Mike Veerman (finally) popped the question to the love of his life Danika, in the most romantic, cheesy and memorable way. Following every stereotypical “how to propose” must haves: candlelight, rose petals, wine, music and even cats with bowties – it was old fashion and absolutely PURRFECT! (Yep, I went there) Mike and Max reveal the full story on the Mike On Much podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghrxlyVfbmw

My favourite part of their engagement story was the ring, or lack thereof. Mike, being far from a jewellery connoisseur, instead proposed with a trip to NYC where Danika’s favourite jeweller is based. Her choice of a simple, delicate and beautiful ring, with a small black stone, set between diamonds, is definitely a favourite of mine.

Fast forward a few months, Danika and Mike had a wedding to plan. From the moment I met these two kind hearted and wonderful humans I knew we were going to have a blast planning their wedding day! They wanted nothing more than for their families, friends and massive bridal party to enjoy every single moment of their celebration and that is exactly what happened.

The Sunday prior we hosted an awesome Mexican themed rehearsal fiesta complete with decorations, drinks and so much food! It was a beautiful day and definitely one of the most entertaining rehearsals I have ever had the pleasure of coordinating.

The morning of their wedding day the stunning Danika and her bridal party got ready at her father’s gorgeous property, with the help of MUA Sarah Smith and Hair Stylist Kim Pokoradi. The sweetest, little flower girl, Willa, took her job very seriously, and kept us entertained with her bubbly and radiant personality. An incredible spread of food, and never ending champagne filled flutes kept the morning preparations relaxed and picture perfect.

Meanwhile, in the heart of Hamilton, Mike and his 8 handsomely dressed misfits were busy sipping beer, playing basketball and being emphatic boys in men-like bodies - entirely fitting and collectively hilarious!!

After meeting up for the couple’s heart-warming first look, the bridal party loaded onto a school bus and headed to The Mule in Hamilton for a lunch of tacos and tequila. Once every last delicious taco morsel was consumed the group casually strolled over to the Spice Factory to begin their ceremony.

We transformed the second floor of the Spice Factory into what I can only imagine was a replica, inspired by their proposal, minus the cats (to my dismay). The dark, raw, space was illuminated with hundreds of candles lining the aisles, leading to the focal point of a floral arch by I Fiori and a waterfall of stringed lights, creating the most captivating backdrop. Following their passionate, short and sweet ceremony guests were led to the lower level of The Spice Factory for their cocktail reception, to get the party started!

A lounge area from Warehouse 84 was created in a cozy corner, decorated with portraits of Danika and Mike’s beautiful and loved mothers, on their own wedding day’s. The most breathtaking florals from I Filori overflowed the space and of course everywhere you looked was more candlelight. Photographer TJ Tindale captured every unique and beautiful moment of their light-hearted celebration.

Their party continued well into the night with questionable dance moves, shirtless groomsmen and overflowing drinks. A generous selection of Donut Monster’s delicious sweets and a perogie bar as a late night snack fuelled these wild and fun loving guests throughout the evening.

Congratulations, Danika and Mike! I had an absolutely incredible time getting to know your family, friends, your tacos, and mostly both of you as a couple and as individuals. I am forever grateful to have been a part of your wedding day and to now be able to consider you my friends.